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Quilters express gratitude to needy veterans

_ The Rebellion Dogs Quilt Guild is making "Gratitude Quilts" to thank local in-need veterans for their past and present service and sacrifice for our country. The guild meets at 6:30 p.m. the first and third Mondays at the Clallam County Veterans Center at 216 S. Francis St., Port Angeles.

Quilters of all skill levels are welcome. The guild is asking for donations - money, fabric, thread, and quilting supplies. It also would like the names of veterans who deserve a quilt. Call JoAnn Vickery at 360-461-0506 for more information.

_ In an earlier column, I told you about Sarge's Place, veterans transitional housing in Forks. Many government and service organizations are working to make this housing a reality.

I am asking you to help, also. Please consider their remodeling and furnishing needs when you do your fall cleaning.

There will be eight beds for men, four for women, three two-bedroom units for families and one unit for the veteran caretaker - all must be furnished. I have a long list of needed items, or you can e-mail Cheri Fleck at cherif@forkshospital.org.

_ Friday is the anniversary of 9/11. A good way to show support for first responders, the military, pride in our country and that we have not forgotten those who perished would be to fly the United States flag. Let's have flags everywhere on Friday.

_ Sept. 16 is American Legion Day. On that date in 1919, Congress chartered the American Legion. This will trigger a three-month "Legiontown USA" campaign to recognize communities where posts play an important role.

Post 62 in Sequim observes Veterans Day, Memorial Day, Flag Day, participates in the Irrigation Festival Parade, sends "citizens" to Evergreen Boys and Girls State, supports the Sailor of the Quarter program for the USCGC Swordfish and helps with the Washington State Veterans Home in Retsil's Christmas Gift Shop.

The post is on South Sequim Avenue and Prairie Street. Meetings start at 7 p.m. the second Thursday of the month.

_ Operation Comfort Warriors has been mentioned in this column before. Service members recovering at military hospitals get world-class medical care, but they do not always receive comfort items to help pass the time, such as music players, CDs, DVDs and games.

Troops who have lost limbs also appreciate soft sweat suits and other loose clothing to wear during recovery.

If you would like to contribute to getting troops comfort items, send a donation to Operation Comfort Warriors, P.O. Box 1055, Indianapolis, IN 46206.

_ Once again, the local Marine Corps League is being honored - James and Rachel Graham received the Four Chaplains Award from National Headquarters for their aid to the Homeless Veterans Program; the detachment received the Meritorious Unit Commendation from the Washington State League; Detachment Commander Tom Flanik, Past Commander Jake Fish, Washington State Veteran of the Year Tom McKeown and detachment member Terry Roth all were awarded Distinguished Citizen Awards for their service to the community. Congratulations to all.

_ While you are out shopping, check the sale aisles. I have seen last year's toys on sale. Please get a few for the Marine Corps' Toys For Tots program that will start after Thanksgiving.

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